Place dates, sugar, margarine, and water in saucepan. Bring to the boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2 minutes. If you would like to use the microwave, place the dates, sugar, margarine and water in covered glass bowl and microwave on high for 4 minutes. Remove from heat and cool.

Add the egg and mix well. Stir through sifted flours and baking powder, then place in a lightly greased 14 cm x 21cm loaf tin.

Bake in moderate oven (180°C) for 50 minutes.

Tips

Fresh or dried dates make a wonderful addition to a cheese platter, or try adding dates and a handful of walnuts to a fresh fruit salad.

To make a delicious savoury spread, simmer half a cup of dried dates with half a cup of water until soft. Add enough peanut butter to make mixture spreadable. Store in a sterilised jar in the refrigerator and use on sandwiches or with steamed vegetables.

The sensational buttery sweetness of dates makes them a great addition to muffins and scones. Try adding dates and ginger to a wholemeal muffin mix for a healthy, high fibre and very tasty treat.

Remember to always check the label of each ingredient to ensure it is gluten free.

Tips

Fresh or dried dates make a wonderful addition to a cheese platter, or try adding dates and a handful of walnuts to a fresh fruit salad.

To make a delicious savoury spread, simmer half a cup of dried dates with half a cup of water until soft. Add enough peanut butter to make mixture spreadable. Store in a sterilised jar in the refrigerator and use on sandwiches or with steamed vegetables.

The sensational buttery sweetness of dates makes them a great addition to muffins and scones. Try adding dates and ginger to a wholemeal muffin mix for a healthy, high fibre and very tasty treat.